CUPE cautiously optimistic about working with new government

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - Nov. 29, 2013) - In response to yesterday's speech from the throne, CUPE Nova Scotia President Danny Cavanagh says the union is ready to work with the government on any new or amended legislation affecting workers in the province.

"We are cautiously optimistic that this Liberal government will be willing to sit at the table with us and listen to the concerns of its frontline workers as we go forward with any legislative changes affecting the workplace," says Cavanagh. "We are hopeful that Premier McNeil and the ministers will be as concerned as we are that any legislative changes result in minimal disruptions to labour relations in the province."

Cavanagh says he is encouraged that the government intends to put funding back into education, hire more workplace safety inspectors and evaluate the continuing care strategy.

"We would hope that any review processes this government undertakes, in health, education or other areas, includes a team approach that involves the stakeholders-the frontline workers and the unions who represent them," says Cavanagh.

A statutory holiday in February is an initiative Cavanagh says the union has been advocating for and would support, providing workers get paid for it. The union also supports a ban on the importation of fracked wastewater, and is curious to know more about the government's planned culture strategy.

"There are many details missing and we hope that in the coming months the premier will be more forthcoming with his plans," says Cavanagh. "We are very willing to work with this government to protect frontline service providers and continue to provide top-notch public services to the residents of Nova Scotia."